Independence and Conflict of Interest
This document explains the principles of Advance.hr’s editorial independence, as well as the rules we use to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure professional, transparent journalism.
1. Introduction
This document defines the principles of independence and the rules for avoiding conflicts of interest in the work of Advance.hr. Our goal is to ensure that editorial decisions, content, and analyses remain free from political, economic, and personal influence.
2. Editorial Independence
Editorial decisions are made autonomously and in accordance with professional journalistic standards. Advance.hr does not belong to any political bloc, party, state body, interest group, or media conglomerate. Content is not shaped by external pressure, but exclusively by the public interest and editorial judgment.
3. Financial Independence
The portal is funded entirely through reader subscriptions and is not subject to advertising, sponsorship, or PR influence. We do not receive funding from states, political entities, organizations, foundations, investors, or any market actors that could influence editorial content. This model enables complete editorial freedom.
4. Separation of Commercial and Editorial Decisions
The commercial aspect of the business never influences the choice of topics, analytical approaches, or methods of reporting. Authors and editors do not receive instructions from advertisers, sponsors, or anyone who could influence the content. If informational notices for cultural or professional events are ever published, they will be clearly marked and will have no influence on editorial processes.
5. Conflicts of Interest Involving Authors and Editors
Authors and editors are required to avoid situations in which personal interests could affect the objectivity or integrity of the content. This includes:
- a ban on accepting gifts, benefits, or advantages from political or economic actors
- a ban on writing about topics in which the author has a personal or financial interest
- an obligation to report any potential conflict of interest to the editorial team
- the separation of personal views from factual reporting
6. Transparency of Information Sources
Whenever possible and appropriate, we cite data sources, documents, and relevant institutions. We use clearly identified sources in order to ensure credibility and to allow readers to understand the origin of the information. We avoid using sources that are non-transparent or have obvious interest-driven goals.
7. Independence of Analytical Approach
Analyses and commentaries on Advance.hr are based on available facts, expert interpretations, and broad context. We do not align ourselves with the interests of major powers, corporations, or ideological centers of power. Our goal is to encourage understanding of global processes, not to advocate anyone’s interests.
8. Responsibility Toward the Public
Our only interest is to provide high-quality, verified, and responsible information. Subscribers are, in effect, the patrons of the editorial team’s work, which obliges us to maintain transparency, professionalism, and respect for intellectual standards. We reject every form of pressure, whether political or economic, as unacceptable.
9. Procedure in Cases of Suspected Conflict of Interest
If a suspected conflict of interest arises, the editorial team conducts an internal review and, where necessary, removes or revises the content. In more serious cases, the author may be excluded from working on a particular topic, and the editorial team will publicly indicate any changes if they affect the content.
10. Changes to the Document
This document may be updated from time to time to reflect changes in the editorial structure, business model, or professional standards. Updated versions are always available on this page.